Consider the often overlooked result of energy that is not spent moving toward our goals. That energy often is transformed into overeating and other habits that affect your health.

Samuel describes the cost of inaction as lethargy. It’s that lethargy that keeps you from having the energy to do such things as work on a challenging project or step out of your comfort zone and attend networking events that can lead to connections that can move your career in a positive direction. Over time, the effects of inaction can take a toll on your self-confidence.

It’s not too late to start working on your goals, and you can develop awareness of the obstacles that may keep you from acting. Samuel sites four areas:

Need for Comfort — Comfort is a powerful force that can keep you in a job where the routine has no opportunity to take risks and grow professionally. If staying comfortable becomes the driving force behind your decisions, the result could be inaction and a lack of opportunities to contribute and change.

Fear — The biggest obstacle to action, fear can take many forms when moving towards career goals. It stands in the way of meeting new contacts, applying for jobs that really interest you or going back to school.

Internal Resistance — When you stop taking action, learning from your mistakes and moving forward, you may give up on your goals and the idea of success. Joining a support group or working with a career coach can help you build and maintain motivation.

Perfectionism — Maybe you’ve heard the phrase “analysis paralysis.” When you stay in the planning stage, working to get things perfect before you move ahead, you may find you never take that first step. Keep your expectations in check, and if the desire to flawlessly implement your plan prevents you from taking action, focus instead on reaching your goal.

“Making Yourself Indispensable: The Power of Personal Accountability” confirms the need for personal accountability and is a book that will give you the insights you need to take the first steps towards change.